Diary Entry for CBSE Class 9–12: Format, Tips, Examples & Questions

What is a Diary Entry?

A diary entry is a personal form of writing where an individual records their thoughts, feelings, experiences, or observations on a particular day. It is an informal yet expressive style of writing that helps students develop reflective and narrative skills.

In CBSE, diary entry writing is often included in Class 9, 10, and sometimes 12 English exams to assess students’ creativity, emotional expression, and writing structure.

Key Points:

• A diary is written in the first person and usually in the past tense.
• It is a confidential and personal form of writing, meant only for the writer.
• Entries can be about a daily event, special moment, or personal thoughts and emotions.

Note for CBSE Students:
Diary entry is part of the English writing skills section. Understanding tone, format, and perspective is important to score well. Refer to official CBSE resources and sample papers on cbseacademic.nic.in for updated guidelines.

Diary Entry Format

Writing a diary entry for CBSE exams follows a specific structure that ensures clarity, personal tone, and proper sequencing of thoughts. Though it is informal, you should still maintain organization and language quality, as it’s part of your writing skills evaluation.

Subtext:
Students should follow the prescribed format strictly in exams to ensure full marks. It must begin with the day, date, and time, and end with a name or initials.

Standard Diary Entry Format (As per CBSE pattern):

Pointers to Remember:

• Always write in first person (I, me, my).
• Maintain a personal and reflective tone.
• Keep the tense consistent—preferably past tense.
• Focus on feelings, opinions, or reactions to events.
• Structure the entry into an introduction, main body, and conclusion.

Example Layout:

Monday, 10th August 2025  

9:30 PM  

Dear Diary,

Today was one of the most unforgettable days of my life. I finally participated in my first school debate competition and secured second position! The entire experience—from preparing my arguments to standing confidently on stage—was both thrilling and nerve-wracking.

I was initially nervous, but once I began, everything flowed smoothly. I’m proud of myself and thankful to my teachers for encouraging me.

– Aditi

Tips to Write a Diary Entry

Diary writing is not just about recounting events—it's about reflecting on how those events made you feel. While there’s no strict rulebook for personal writing, CBSE exams require a clear structure, tone, and emotional depth.

Subtext:
These tips will help CBSE Class 9–12 students write engaging and well-structured diary entries that meet exam expectations.

Top Tips for Writing a Good Diary Entry:

1. Start with the Basics:
   Always begin with the correct day, date, and time. This gives your entry a realistic and organized structure.
2. Use a Conversational Tone:
   Write as if you’re speaking to your diary like a friend. Use personal language, emotions, and honest thoughts.
3. Be Expressive, Not Just Descriptive:
   Don’t just say what happened. Share how you felt, what you learned, and your reactions.
4. Stay True to the Past Tense & First Person:
   Since diary entries reflect on past events, keep your verbs in the past tense and use “I”, “me”, and “my”.
5. End with a Thought or Takeaway:
   Conclude with a reflection, a hope for the future, or a question to yourself. This gives your writing depth.

Diary Entry Examples

These sample diary entries are crafted around real-world scenarios students may relate to—from school achievements to personal reflections. Each follows the CBSE-recommended format and is designed to help students understand tone, structure, and depth.

Subtext:
Use these examples as references to improve your diary writing style. Make sure to adapt the tone and content based on your own experience in the exam.

Example 1: A Surprise Birthday Party

Tuesday, 15th July 2025  

10:00 PM  

Dear Diary,

Today was unbelievable! My friends and family threw me a surprise birthday party. I had no idea they were planning it. The decorations, the cake, and the laughter made it one of the best days of my life. I’m so lucky to have such thoughtful people around me.

– Riya

Example 2: Winning a School Sports Event

Friday, 18th August 2025  
7:45 PM  
Dear Diary,

We had our school’s annual sports day today, and I won the 100m race! I can’t describe how proud I felt when I stood on the podium with the medal. All my practice and hard work finally paid off. My parents looked so happy!

– Kunal

Example 3: First Day at a New School

Monday, 4th April 2025  
8:00 PM  
Dear Diary,

I joined my new school today. I was nervous at first but my classmates were really welcoming. The teachers seemed kind too. I hope I can make good friends here soon. I already miss my old school though.

– Mehak

Example 4: Witnessing a Road Accident

Thursday, 10th October 2025  
9:15 PM  
Dear Diary,

I saw a road accident today while coming home. A scooter slipped near the market. Thankfully, the man was wearing a helmet and only got a few bruises. It reminded me how important road safety is. I’ll never forget that scene.

– Ayush

Example 5: School Picnic to a Historical Site

Saturday, 1st February 2025  
10:30 PM  
Dear Diary,

Our class went to the Red Fort today. It was both fun and educational. The huge walls, the Mughal architecture, and the light-and-sound show amazed me. I clicked so many pictures. I wish every history lesson was this exciting!

– Neha

Example 6: Losing a Pet

Sunday, 21st September 2025  
8:45 PM  
Dear Diary,

Today has been heartbreaking. My pet rabbit, Snowy, passed away. I can’t stop crying. She was with us for 3 years. The house feels so empty without her. I hope she’s in a better place now.

– Aamir

Example 7: Getting Scolded for a Mistake

Wednesday, 3rd May 2025  
9:00 PM  
Dear Diary,

I got scolded by my teacher today for forgetting to complete my homework. I felt embarrassed in front of everyone. I know it’s my fault, and I’ll make sure it doesn’t happen again. Lesson learned.

– Tanya

Example 8: Participating in a School Play

Sunday, 12th November 2025  
9:50 PM  
Dear Diary,

Our school drama club performed a play today and I was the narrator! It felt amazing to be on stage. I was nervous but everything went smoothly. Everyone clapped so loudly. I think I’ve found a new love for acting!

– Kabir

Example 9: Feeling Lonely During Exams

Monday, 20th March 2025  
11:00 PM  
Dear Diary,

Exams are going on, and I feel so lonely. All my friends are busy studying. I barely go out. Sometimes I wish the pressure wasn’t so much. I hope all this effort pays off and I get good marks.

– Sneha

Example 10: Visiting Grandparents After a Long Time

Saturday, 30th December 2025  
6:30 PM  
Dear Diary,

We visited Nani and Nana today after almost a year. I missed their stories, food, and warm hugs. Nani made my favorite kheer. I wish we could come here more often. Nothing beats the comfort of grandparents’ home.

– Samar

Practice Questions

These diary entry practice questions are based on real-life situations and are suitable for CBSE Class 9, 10, and 12 students. They will help you prepare for exams and improve your narrative and reflective writing skills.
Each prompt encourages you to express emotions, describe events, and reflect thoughtfully—exactly what CBSE examiners look for.

Diary Entry Practice Questions (20 Questions)

1. You attended your first online class and found it confusing. Write a diary entry sharing your experience.
2. You helped a blind person cross a busy road. Describe the experience in your diary.
3. Write a diary entry on how you felt when you got your first salary (for part-time/freelance work).
4. Your school was closed due to heavy rains. Describe how you spent the unexpected holiday.
5. Write about a time when your best friend misunderstood you.
6. You got lost in a fair and later found your family after a long time. Record the incident.
7. You forgot your best friend’s birthday and felt guilty. Share your emotions in your diary.
8. You had a heated argument with a teacher but later realized your mistake. Write a diary entry.
9. You received an award in the morning assembly. Express your joy and thoughts.
10. Your pet fell sick, and you took care of it all night. Write a diary entry sharing your worries.
11. You participated in a science exhibition and your project won 1st prize. Record your excitement.
12. Your mobile phone was stolen in the market. Share how you felt and what you did.
13. Write about your emotions before and after your first board exam.
14. You went on a trekking trip with your school. Describe the experience.
15. Your sibling made you proud by winning a national competition. Express your feelings.
16. You had an embarrassing moment on stage during a school function. Record your thoughts.
17. You visited an old-age home with your classmates. Write about what you observed and felt.
18. You made a new friend during summer vacation. Describe the person and the bond you share.
19. You were caught cheating in a class test. Write a diary entry expressing regret.
20. A social media post you made went viral unexpectedly. Share your thoughts and reactions.

Conclusion

Diary writing is a powerful way for students to reflect, express, and communicate their inner thoughts. In the CBSE curriculum, it not only helps enhance writing skills but also encourages emotional intelligence and creativity.

By following the correct format, using personal tone, and practicing regularly, students of Classes 9, 10, and 12 can master diary entry writing with ease.

Whether it's a joyful moment, a tough day, or a valuable lesson learned, diary entries turn experiences into meaningful reflections—just the kind of writing CBSE examiners appreciate.

Keep practicing with real-life situations and maintain your own personal diary—it’s the best way to prepare!